Description

Bring on the mud.

The 2017 Ridley X-Night 40 Disc Rival 1 Complete Cyclocross Bike comes prepared for it all with a blend of technology and classic design to tackle the snow, sleet, rain, or random hot and sunny days of a given 'cross season. Ridley kits this build out with SRAM's workhorse one-by Rival 1 drivetrain and powerful hydraulic disc brakes for an affordable package that doesn't skimp on the race-worthy functionality. A 42t chainring pairs with an 11-32t cassette to provide exceptional mid-range gearing options suitable for almost any terrain. To round things out, a set of DT Swiss R24 Spline DB tubeless-ready wheels come wrapped with Clement's versatile MXP tires.

The X-Knight is made from 24t high-modulus carbon fiber that seamlessly transfers power into forward motion while soaking up jarring vibrations. Internal cable routing gets the cables out of the way for easy shouldering on run-ups and un-rideable muddy sections. Race-specific European cyclocross geometry pairs with wide tire clearance to create a frame that can handle everything from dusty, hardpacked SoCal dirt to the rain soaked courses of the upper East Coast.

The X-Night's fork boasts a few little details to increase durability and just make life easier. The Oryx Disc carbon fiber fork utilizes a 12mm thru-axle for a solid ride, with a barely perceptible asymmetry to counter the torsional forces applied to the left fork leg during braking. Stainless steel inserts at the dropouts protect the carbon from damage, and a scuff plate on the inner left fork legs protects the surface from rogue discs during hurried wheel changes in the pit. Less wear and tear leads to a longer fork lifespan, so you can look forward to many seasons of fun on this bike.

Have an answer for Eustace B. Samson?

not the same geometry although 99% of users will be able to use a cyclocross bike just as well on the road as a road bike. For the pros there are some differences i.e. the geometry isn't quite as aerodynamic and isnt really designed for 5h races. CX bikes also have a slightly longer wheelsbase which isnt as a efficient but more stable. Traditionally CX bikes had a higher bottom bracket for mud clearance. They also have slightly sturdier and heavier frames.

Have an answer for Eustace B. Samson?

Weekend Worlds

Familiarity: I've put it through the wringer

If you are reading this you are clearly ready to throw down at this week’s weekend worlds. Godspeed. Not sure what you are riding now but if you haven’t ridden a Ridley you haven’t ridden a cyclocross bike. Ok, I’m getting carried away, but Ridley didn’t become one on the best cyclocross bike manufacturers overnight - They are in all essence “cyclocross.” The beauty of this 24t high-modulus carbon fiber frame is its responsiveness and zero hesitation when you put your 1000 watts of power to the pedals. X-Nights have always been stiff and snappy, but I enjoyed the slim seat-stays which definitely smoothed out the ride on some rough courses. This is a huge feature if you plan to do some gravel-grinding or longer rode rides. I mean what is a bike review without talking about stiffness and compliancy, now that I got that out of the way let’s talk sizing and drivetrain. .. On sizing, a great rule on Ridley’s is if you ride a 56cm road bike then typically you would want a 54cm, but one thing for sure you will not be a 56cm. Finally, great to see the X1 drivetrain, this is without a doubt the way to build a cross bike that is ready to race – looks super clean, saves weight, and saves front der headaches. Please hit me up if you have any questions or need anything at all. Bill Sherman Customer Account Manager-Bike Office: 801-204-4545 bsherman@backcountry.com